Blogs

Blogs

ASCOconnection.org is a forum for the exchange of views on topical issues in the field of oncology. The views expressed in the blogs, comments, and forums belong to the authors. They do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of the American Society of Clinical Oncology. Please read the Commenting Guidelines.

Many of the couples that I see in my practice grow closer after the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. But for others, the experience of serious illness exposes existing weak points in their relationship.

When we are at the bedside, eye to eye with the patient and their families, we can do more than any website, journal, or even Dr. Google can to help our patients understand their cancer and their treatment.

A medical clinic is not set up for those who take their time, and efficiency is important. But in the short time we have for each patient visit, we must make an effort to be truly present with that person.

Not everyone shares my view of what constitutes a good death, and I’ve come to realize that when a patient has a very different view of the end of life from mine, it can be very difficult to do what’s right.

When the word “cancer” is evoked and you are asked to see an oncologist, a flood of emotions can occur. Often you are even unsure of what questions to ask. I hope this blog will help create a quick reference sheet for a patient during their office visit.

If you really want to help someone, you have to understand the context of their lives, because that context influences if they are able to listen, what they will hear, and what they will do with the information you tell them.

“When are we going to cure cancer?” If I had a dime for every time I’ve been asked that...The trite answer is that we already cure many cancers, just not enough of them! But the real question should be, “Why don’t we cure all cancers?”

As physicians, Dr. Michael K. Keng writes, we have the responsibility not only to care for our patients, but to improve patient care. Quality improvement is often known as a mechanism to reduce cost, but it is also an opportunity to improve the full patient experience.

It's up to us to advise our patients not to share medications, despite their generous natures. At best, the medications are ineffective because they aren't used properly; at worst, misuse can cause active harm.

Cancer unavoidably leads to losses. Letting go of what I have lost has allowed me to accept and be grateful for what I, for the moment, have. I wish that I could have started doing this without getting sick.

In oncology, many patients continue under our care for years and years. These patients become part of our clinic and, dare I say, our lives, and it is the merging of patient-person-friend where, emotionally, being an oncologist can become quite complicated.

Words can harm and words can heal. Using the word "partner" when scheduling an initial appointment with a patient opened the door to a more meaningful relationship, and created an environment of safety and trust.